EG GROUP has reported an increase in earnings for the first three months of 2021.

This comes despite the ongoing lockdown restrictions across many of the Blackburn headquartered company's sectors, with earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization having risen by 5.8 per cent on a reported basis and 2.5 per cent on a like-for-like basis.

The trading report released by EG Group showed particularly strong performances in the company's foodstuff, grocery and fuel operations.

In a joint statement, company founders and co-CEOs Mohsin and Zuber Issa said: “We are pleased to report a resilient performance in Q1 2021, which is testament to the ongoing dedication of our colleagues around the world, and underscores the benefits of our scale and diversified business model.

"At the same time, the group has continued to take significant and proactive steps forward in its longer-term development."

During this period, the report shows that EG Group opened seven new sites across the country.

This growth has been supported by the company's rapid expansion over the last few months with the Issa brothers' ongoing Asda takeover featuring particularly prominently.

The brothers now hope to continue expanding both in the UK and internationally over the coming months and years.

Mohsin and Zuber Issa said: "This includes the recently announced acquisition of LEON Restaurants, along with the previously announced Asda Forecourts and OMV Germany acquisitions.

"These exciting transactions will further strengthen EG’s growth prospects in both fuel and non-fuel operations.

"Together they highlight the increasing breadth and scale of our portfolio, and the continued growth of our foodservice operations, which are a key element of the Group’s growth strategy.”

They added: “Looking ahead, assuming the continued easing of global Covid restrictions, we expect to see more positive trading conditions as we continue to provide an essential service to millions of customers in communities globally.

"Additionally, the continued strengthening of our Board and leadership functions demonstrates the Group’s commitment to implementing best practice in corporate governance and the importance we attribute to ESG, while helping us to deliver on the significant growth opportunities that lie ahead.”